If you live in Barcelona, you’ve surely felt the need to escape the city’s fast pace more than once. We crave fresh air, calm seas, nearby nature, and experiences that take us out of the routine without going too far.
Maresme, the coastal strip between Barcelona and the Costa Brava, offers all that: wide, quiet beaches, charming fishing villages, hiking routes through forests and viewpoints over the Mediterranean, and top-quality gastronomy based on local produce.
The best part? It’s all less than 40 minutes from the city, making Maresme the perfect destination for a weekend getaway. And if you complete it by staying in a charming villa from Cloud5 Barcelona, your trip becomes much more than a simple escape—it turns into the perfect weekend getaway near Barcelona.
Day 1: From the beach to maritime culture
Morning: peaceful beaches and breakfast by the sea
Maresme’s coastline offers family-friendly, clean beaches that are far less crowded than those in Barcelona city. Vilassar de Mar, Premià, or Cabrera de Mar are great options to start the day with a seaside stroll and a leisurely breakfast on a terrace facing the sand.
Midday: Arenys de Mar and its fishing port
Arenys de Mar is one of Maresme’s most authentic towns. Walking through its port, watching the fishing boats return, and enjoying a seafood rice dish at one of its restaurants is a truly local experience.
Afternoon: relaxation in Caldes d’Estrac (Caldetes)
Besides its beach, Caldetes is well known for its thermal waters. It’s the perfect stop to combine a spa circuit at a thermal bath near Barcelona with a walk along its peaceful seaside promenade steeped in tradition.
Evening: dinner and atmosphere at El Masnou’s marina
The Port Esportiu de El Masnou is one of the liveliest spots on the coast, with Mediterranean cuisine restaurants and places to enjoy a drink or live music after dinner. It’s ideal for couples or groups looking for a fun night by the sea—without heading back to Barcelona.
👉 And the best part: when you’re done, you can return to your holiday rental in Maresme, just a few minutes away, and unwind in peace after a special night.
Day 2: Nature and charming villages
Morning: hiking in Montnegre & el Corredor
The Montnegre Natural Park offers trails for all levels, with viewpoints that gift you spectacular sea views. It’s the perfect plan if you want a touch of mountain without leaving the coast behind.
👉 From our property in Vilassar de Dalt, Ses Voltes Boutique Home Sea and Sky, you can combine beach and mountain in one weekend while enjoying all the comfort of a private home.
Midday: Sant Pol de Mar
This small fishing town, with its whitewashed houses and cobblestone streets, is perfect to get lost in and enjoy a seaside rice dish. Time seems to stand still here, making it one of Maresme’s most authentic corners.
Afternoon: modernism in Canet de Mar
Known as Maresme’s “modernist town,” Canet is the birthplace of architect Domènech i Montaner. Wandering its streets is like discovering Catalonia’s architectural gems in a calm, authentic setting.
Evening: sunset in Malgrat de Mar
Wrap up your getaway watching the sun set over the Mediterranean. If you’re traveling with family, Malgrat’s promenade also offers play areas for children and restaurants to enjoy a relaxed dinner.
Practical tips for a weekend in Maresme
How to get from Barcelona to Maresme: by car via the C-32 (30–40 minutes from Barcelona). You can also take the R1 train line, which stops at most coastal towns.
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Where to stay in el Maresme: choosing the right accommodation in Maresme is key. At Cloud5 you’ll find plenty of options depending on your plan: from the EcoGrus Apartments in El Masnou to renting a private villa in Cabrils like Mas Vives, which offers tranquility, a garden, a pool, and all the space you need to unwind.
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Best time to visit el Maresme: Maresme is a year-round destination. Spring and autumn bring mild weather and fewer tourists; summer is perfect for beach lovers and warm weather activities; and winter is a great time for long beach walks, mountain hikes, or simply enjoying the calm gardens and spectacular views from Cloud5 accommodations.
To conclude, Maresme is the ideal weekend escape for those living in Barcelona: close, varied, and offering a unique balance of sea, mountains, and tradition.
But the difference between a good weekend and an unforgettable experience lies in where you stay. A Cloud5 Barcelona villa lets you enjoy Maresme with privacy, Mediterranean style, and all the comforts of a hotel—while giving you the freedom to feel at home.
👉 Discover our holiday villas in Maresme and start planning your next getaway today.